Elbow arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat elbow problems, including arthritis and tennis elbow, often in the same procedure.
If you’ve been advised that you need elbow surgery, or suspect that you do, here we explain everything you need to know about elbow arthroscopy surgery. We’ll detail what elbow arthroscopy is used for, how it’s performed and what you can expect in terms of recovery. We’ll also cover the benefits of having your procedure with Ramsay Health Care.
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What is elbow arthroscopy?
Elbow arthroscopy, sometimes called keyhole elbow surgery, is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat a range of elbow conditions. It involves inserting a small camera, called an arthroscope, into your elbow joint through tiny incisions. The camera sends detailed images to a monitor, allowing your surgeon to examine the joint and carry out treatment using specialised keyhole surgical instruments.
Compared with traditional open elbow surgery, elbow arthroscopy is performed via much smaller incisions. This means less damage and scarring occur to the surrounding tissues. This can lessen post-operative pain and discomfort and reduce the risk of complications. Patients usually recover much faster than with open surgery.
Arthroscopy of the elbow procedures usually take between 30 and 90 minutes to perform, depending on the complexity of the treatment required. It’s typically performed under general anaesthetic, although local or regional anaesthetic may be suitable in some cases. Most patients have it as a day case procedure, meaning they can return home the same day.
What conditions are treated with elbow arthroscopy?
Elbow arthroscopy surgery can be performed to both diagnose and treat a variety of painful or restrictive elbow problems, particularly where non-surgical treatments haven’t provided enough relief.
It is most often used to treat the following conditions:
Wear and tear within the elbow joint, and usually the loss of cartilage. This can result in damaged bone and can lead to pain, stiffness and reduced movement. Arthroscopy can help by removing loose fragments of bone or other material, smoothing rough cartilage, and treating bone spurs.
Inflammation within the elbow caused by rheumatoid arthritis can damage the joint lining and the surrounding tissues. Arthroscopy can be used to remove inflamed tissue and improve comfort and mobility.
Overuse of the muscles and tendons in the forearm can lead to a painful condition called tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis). If non-surgical treatments don’t prove effective, elbow arthroscopy can be used to treat damaged tendon tissue.
Loose bodies or cartilage fragments
Small pieces of bone or cartilage can become trapped inside the elbow joint, causing locking, catching, or pain. Elbow arthroscopy surgery can help to remove these loose bodies.
Elbow bone spurs (osteophytes)
Elbow bone spurs are hard bony growths that can form on the edges of elbow bones, limiting movement and causing discomfort. Arthroscopy can remove these spurs and improve the range of motion.
Elbow stiffness or capsule contracture
A stiff elbow may develop after an injury or surgery, or it can be caused by inflammation of the lining of the elbow joint. Arthroscopy can help diagnose and release tight tissues, helping to restore movement and reduce discomfort.
Osteochondritis dissecans
Osteochondritis dissecans occurs when a small area of bone and cartilage becomes damaged and detaches from the surrounding bone. This often happens in younger and/or active patients. Arthroscopy may be used to repair or remove the detached tissue.
Removal of adhesions or scar tissue
Scar tissue can build up in the elbow joint after a fracture or a previous injury, including a broken elbow, leading to pain and restricted movement. Arthroscopy can remove adhesions and thickened tissue to improve joint function.
How is elbow arthroscopy performed?
The details of elbow arthroscopy surgeries will vary, depending on the patient, the reason for the operation, and the surgeon. The surgery is usually performed in the same way. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more confident before surgery.
Most elbow arthroscopy surgery involves the following:
Before your procedure
You first attend a pre-operative assessment to review your medical history and check your overall health. Imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI scan, may be arranged to assess the joint and to help with diagnosis.
Once it’s confirmed that you’ll need elbow arthroscopy surgery, your surgeon will explain what the procedure will involve. You’ll usually discuss your anaesthetic options with an anaesthesiologist.
During the procedure
On the day of your procedure, you’ll be booked in. You’ll typically be asked to change into a surgical gown before you’re taken into surgery.
Once the anaesthetic has taken effect, your surgeon will make several very small incisions around the elbow. Sterile fluid will be pumped into the joint to improve visibility and create space for the surgeon to work. The arthroscope will be inserted, along with fine surgical instruments used to repair tissue, remove loose fragments, or treat damaged areas.
After the procedure
Once the operation has been completed, the surgical instruments will be removed, and the small incisions will be closed, usually with stitches or adhesive strips. A dressing will be applied, and, in some cases, a temporary splint may be used to support the elbow.
You’ll be taken to a recovery area where you’ll be monitored as you come around from the anaesthesia and begin to recover.
Elbow arthroscopy recovery
Recovery after elbow arthroscopy surgery is usually quicker than after open elbow surgery, as the procedure uses smaller incisions and causes less disruption to surrounding tissue.
Your own recovery time will depend on the exact treatment performed, your age and overall health. How closely you follow your post-operative advice and rehabilitation plan will also be a factor. Most patients can expect broadly the following:
Immediately after your elbow arthroscopy surgery
Most patients can return home the same day as their procedure once the effects of the anaesthetic have worn off. Your elbow will be covered with a dressing and may be supported in a sling or temporary splint.
On the first day, it’s normal to experience:
- Mild to moderate pain
- Swelling around the elbow
- Temporary stiffness
- Drowsiness after the anaesthetic
Pain relief medication will usually be provided and will typically be enough to manage your discomfort well. You’ll also be given instructions on how to care for your wound before you’re discharged.
The first 48 to 72 hours after your elbow arthroscopy surgery
During this time, pain and swelling are often at their highest. Rest is important, but gentle movement of the fingers, wrist, and shoulder is usually encouraged to help with healing and reduce stiffness.
You should:
- Keep your arm elevated where possible
- Use ice packs if advised to by your surgeon
- Take pain relief as directed
- Keep dressings clean and dry
- Avoid lifting, pushing, or pulling, and any other movement that causes sharp pain
Many patients can manage light daily tasks with the hand of the operated arm, but avoid overusing the elbow and treat it gently.
Week 1 of your recovery
By the end of the first week, pain and swelling usually reduce, and you no longer need regular pain medication. You’ll usually attend a follow-up appointment to check the wounds and review healing, remove any stitches, and discuss physiotherapy exercises.
If you work at a desk job, you may feel ready to return to work. It depends on your pain levels and whether the dominant arm was treated.
Weeks 3 to 6 of your recovery
Mobility should begin to improve more noticeably as pain and swelling reduce. Most patients grow more confident in using their operated arm for everyday activities.
You should be able to return to driving during this period once you can safely control your car and are no longer taking strong pain medication. If you work a more active job, you may be able to return to it.
Weeks 7 and onwards of your recovery
Most patients are able to return to normal activities, although it’s common to continue to see improvements in strength and flexibility for several more months.
Typical elbow arthroscopy surgery recovery times
Most patients experience the following recovery times, although these vary. Your Ramsay surgeon can advise you on what to expect for your individual case.
Loose body removal: Around 3 to 6 weeks
Elbow spur removal: Around 8 to 12 weeks
General recovery for the majority of patients: up to 6 weeks
You’ll likely begin physiotherapy soon after surgery to help restore strength and movement. Access to physiotherapy support is available through your local Ramsay hospital.
What are the risks and complications of elbow arthroscopy?
Elbow arthroscopy is generally considered a safe and commonly performed procedure. Because it’s a minimally invasive type of keyhole surgery, the risk of complications is usually lower than with open surgery. However, as with any operation, there are potential risks and complications. Most of these are uncommon, but they can include:
- Prolonged bleeding
- Nerve irritation or damage within and around the elbow
- Damage to blood vessels
- Lasting stiffness and reduced range of motion after the operation
- Infection in the incisions or within the joint
- Rare but serious complications, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Reactions to the anaesthesia
For most patients, elbow arthroscopy is a safe procedure with a relatively smooth recovery. If you have any worries or concerns about your elbow operation, your Ramsay surgeon will be happy to discuss them with you.
Why choose a private elbow arthroscopy procedure?
Choosing to go private for your keyhole elbow surgery can offer a range of benefits, including:
- Enhanced privacy and dignity – Your own private room during consultations and procedures, giving you the comfort and discretion you need when discussing diagnosis and treatment.
- Faster access to specialist care: See an expert consultant quickly, without lengthy waiting times.
- Continuity of care: You’ll typically see the same Ramsay consultant throughout your treatment journey, helping deliver a more personalised and consistent approach to your care.
- Flexible appointments – Consultations are arranged at times that work around your schedule, including evenings and weekends at some locations.
What is the cost of elbow arthroscopy at Ramsay?
The cost of elbow arthroscopy at Ramsay Health Care will depend on the details of the operation you need, including whether it’s just for diagnosis or for treatment too, and which Ramsay hospital you attend.
After a consultation with one of our Ramsay specialists, we’ll provide you with a personalised quote for your treatment, which will be valid for up to 60 days.
We offer a range of payment options for your treatment, including:
- 0% Payment Plans: Allowing you to spread the cost of your treatment with fixed, monthly payments made over a time period that suits you.
- Self-fund treatment: With our all-inclusive Total Care package, you’ll make a one-time payment at a pre-agreed price that covers all the treatment you’ll need.
- Your own medical insurance: Your private healthcare insurance may cover your elbow surgery. You should get written confirmation from your insurance provider before booking your procedure with us.
For a personalised quote or to discuss payment options in more detail, please contact our friendly team.
Elbow arthroscopy at Ramsay Health Care
Choose Ramsay for your elbow arthroscopy surgery to benefit from quick access to the expert treatment you need at a location close to you. With hospitals across the UK, we make treatment accessible and convenient.
Ramsay’s orthopaedic consultants are experts in elbow arthroscopy, and our whole health care team will support you at every step of the treatment process, including recovery and rehabilitation.
Your Ramsay experience includes:
- Convenient locations across the UK, many with on-site parking.
- State-of-the-art facilities with access to the latest minimally invasive surgical technology.
- Comprehensive care and follow-up to monitor your recovery and long-term outcomes.
- Dedicated patient support with easy access to your specialist team throughout your journey.
Contact us today to speak with one of our friendly advisors, find out more about keyhole elbow surgery at Ramsay Health Care, and book your consultation.
Elbow Arthroscopy FAQs
